The humble colchicum. So humble, I had to add it to the dictionary when I typed that. To me, once the colchicums are planted, I’m officially home.

Fall-blooming, and not to be confused with the autumn crocus, they are the answer to the question: what should I plant for the fall that the (deer, rabbits, etc.) won’t eat?

Quite expensive (about $3 a bulb) and hard to find, they are also the answer to the question, “what should I plant that isn’t completely ubiquitous?”

They are tough, and like most good things, they multiply, so you don’t have to buy more than five. Try them…they are worth the investment, and will make your house look like it could only be your home.